How to Earn Passive Income as a 3D Modeler
Drazen Vorih
Technical Manager | Solidworks Sheet metal | Laser cutting and bending | 3D CAD | Corpus 3D | SketchUp
1. Sell 3D Models on Online Marketplaces ???
One of the easiest ways to make passive income is by selling pre-made 3D models. Instead of working on one-time commissions, you can create models once and sell them multiple times to different buyers.
?? Best platforms to sell 3D models:
? CGTrader – One of the biggest 3D asset marketplaces
? TurboSquid – Used by game developers, animators, and advertisers
? Sketchfab Store – Great for interactive 3D model previews
? Blender Market – Perfect if you specialize in Blender
? Cubebrush & ArtStation Marketplace – Popular among digital artists
?? Pro Tip:
Focus on creating models that are high in demand, such as game assets, vehicles, furniture, or modular kits.
2. Sell 3D Assets for Games & VR/AR ?????
Game developers, VR/AR creators, and indie studios are constantly looking for assets. You can sell ready-made:
?? In-demand game assets:
?? Where to sell game assets?
? Unity Asset Store – If you create assets for Unity developers
? Unreal Engine Marketplace – Great for Unreal Engine projects
? Itch.io – Indie game developers often buy affordable assets here
?? Pro Tip:
Create asset packs instead of single models—buyers love bundles!
3. Sell 3D Printable Models ???
3D printing is booming, and many people are looking for ready-to-print models. You can sell miniatures, props, toys, cosplay items, jewelry, or home decor.
?? Best places to sell 3D printable models:
? Cults3D – Popular marketplace for 3D print files
? MyMiniFactory – Great for tabletop gaming miniatures
? Gumroad – Allows you to sell digital downloads directly
? Etsy – You can sell STL files or even physical 3D prints
?? Pro Tip:
Make sure your models are optimized for 3D printing (manifold, proper scale, and without errors).
4. Create and Sell Tutorials & Online Courses ????
If you’re experienced in 3D modeling, you can turn your knowledge into income by creating tutorials or online courses. Many beginners are willing to pay for structured learning.
?? Where to sell courses/tutorials?
? Udemy – Upload full-length courses and earn from every sale
? Skillshare – Earn money based on watch time
? Gumroad – Sell premium tutorials directly to your audience
? YouTube – Monetize with ads, sponsorships, and memberships
?? Pro Tip:
If you’re not ready for a full course, start with smaller paid tutorials or Patreon-exclusive content.
5. Start a YouTube Channel & Monetize Content ????
YouTube is a powerful way to build a brand and earn passive income. You can make money from ad revenue, sponsorships, affiliate marketing, and memberships.
?? Popular video ideas for 3D artists:
? Speed modeling videos ???
? Blender/Maya/ZBrush tips & tricks ???
? Beginner tutorials & guides ??
? 3D modeling challenges or behind-the-scenes content ??
?? Pro Tip:
YouTube takes time to grow, but consistent uploads will attract an audience over time.
6. License Your 3D Work for Passive Income ??
Instead of selling individual models, you can license your work to companies and get paid whenever someone uses it.
?? Ways to license your work:
? Stock 3D assets – Upload models to sites like Adobe Stock & Shutterstock
? Game/film assets – Offer studios non-exclusive rights to use your models
? Creative Commons licensing – Allow free use but earn through donations or premium versions
?? Pro Tip:
If you don’t want exclusive deals, choose platforms that allow you to sell on multiple sites.
Final Thoughts: Start Small & Scale Up ??
?? Making passive income as a 3D modeler takes time—but once set up, it can generate steady earnings while you focus on new projects.
? Best beginner-friendly options: Selling 3D models & game assets
? High-profit potential: Courses, YouTube, and licensing
? Best for long-term growth: Building a brand with tutorials & a portfolio.